White Sands National Monument

White Sands is located about 1 1/2 hours drive north of El Paso in SE New Mexico.

Over millions of years, rain and snow in the surrounding San Andres Mountains dissolved the gypsum from the rocks and carried it to the bottom of the Tularosa Basin.  The white gypsum and other minerals are trapped since there are no rivers draining the basin.

The White Sands National Monument is unique and is the only white sand desert in the world.

Walking on the glistening white wave-like dunes is a surreal experience.  It feels like we're walking on snow but in 75-80 degree weather.

Peter and I spent a the last part of the day on the dunes catching the golden glow of the sun setting over the white sands.  It was peaceful and zen-like experience.

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From White Sands National Monument